Peterhof Grand Palace

Peterhof Grand Palace is a palace and garden ensemble on the Gulf of Finland commissioned by Peter the Great in the early 18th century near St Petersburg, Russia. It is best known for its formal terraces and extensive fountain systems that decorate the Lower Park and gardens.

Visitors explore the Grand Palace interiors and the Lower Park with the spectacular Grand Cascade and Samson statue, plus the Upper Gardens and numerous pavilions. The ensemble includes over one hundred ornamental fountains and many gilded sculptures set on axial terraces leading to the Gulf.

Construction began under Peter the Great around the 1710s with major expansions and decorative programs continuing through the 18th century under subsequent rulers. The complex was heavily damaged in World War II and restored in large-scale conservation programs in the postwar decades.

Peterhof lies on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland about 30 kilometers west of central St Petersburg and is accessible by road, hydrofoil, and organized tours from the city.

• Gravity-fed fountains: Peterhof is famed for its hydraulic fountain system; many fountains operate without pumps by using the natural fall of water through a gravity-fed network.
• WWII damage and restoration: The palace complex suffered heavy damage during World War II and underwent extensive postwar restoration to return facades and interiors to their historic appearance.

What to See #

• Grand Palace: The Grand Palace is the central palace building overlooking the Lower Park and is connected to a network of formal gardens and pavilions.
• Lower Park and Grand Cascade: The Lower Park contains the Grand Cascade and Samson fountain ensemble, the focal point of the palace's waterworks and axial design.
• Upper Gardens: An upper formal garden area with terraces and ornamental ponds that predates later 18th century expansions.